January comeback for Bojinov

Hughes reveals injured striker is making excellent progress

By James Dall   Last updated: 11th December 2008

January comeback for Bojinov

Bojinov: Back training

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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has revealed injured striker Valeri Bojinov could return to action in January.

The Bulgaria international suffered a second long-term setback since arriving at Eastlands from Fiorentina in 2007 when he tore his Achilles tendon in August.

Bojinov, who has made just one Premier League start for City, immediately underwent surgery on the injury and Hughes has confirmed he is closing in on a comeback.

The City boss said on Sky Sports News: "Boj is doing really well. We are really happy. We are hopeful we will get him back for mid-January, if everything goes to plan.

"He has been out training on the pitches looking like a footballer again.

"He has been really unfortunate. We all know the catalogue of injuries that he's had. For a young player that has been really difficult for him.

"But he has the strength of character. We are really encouraged by the way it is progressing and really looking to forward to getting him back."

Hughes also gave updates on a number of his other injured squad members ahead of Saturday's game with Everton.

He added: "Hopefully Robinho will improve today and will he will able to train tomorrow.

"Gelson Fernandes is training today, Nedum Onuoha is training, Javier Garrido is having treatment and Daniel Sturridge is ill."